10. Nephrite Duck Head Cane
Ca. 1900 Large duck head handle wheel carved of a piece of jewelry-grade Nephrite with a pronounced forehead, chubby cheeks, and a broad and flat bill. The plumage is excessively well-defined, smooth, and velvety. At the same time, the polished bill and delicately outlined eyelids further enhance the overall composition, drawing the viewer's gaze toward the mesmerizing pair of colored crystal eyes. This remarkable figural knob is a testament to the artist's skill in transforming a simple object into a work of art. It comes with a plain silver collar struck with an Austrian silver hallmark besides a “CH” maker’s mark, and a hardly noticeable hand engraving right above the lower edge bears the prestigious name "FRANZ HIESS & SÖHNE WIEN," alluding to the esteemed purveyor of the Imperial capital. The choice of a stepped malacca shaft showcases a harmonious blend of naturally mottled colors, creating a visually captivating composition. Adding a white-metal ferrule lends a touch of elegance and refinement to this exquisite piece. The duck head motif was widely favored and consistently depicted in silver, gold, ivory, tortoiseshell, wood, and hard stones. The latter option, being the highest quality and more expensive to manufacture, was exclusively available to affluent and aristocratic customers. This cane possesses all the desirable attributes collectors seek, effectively encapsu- lating the fundamental elements of superior craftsmanship. Moreover, it has the potential to garner broad recognition a representative exemplar of cane artistry. The advent of the Industrial Revolution enabled the use of lapidary arts to produce figural semiprecious hardstone handles and knobs, which were later marketed in prestigious jewelry establishments in major global cities. One of the most renowned artists, while not the pioneer in employing this particular technique, was Fabergé. His exhibition of these artifacts in Paris in 1900 prompted renewed interest. They fall today under the general denomination of Objects of Virtue, which roughly translates as precious objects standing for excellence. H. 2 ¾” x 3”, O.L. 35 ½”
$3,500-$4,500
24 - Continental Cane Collection Auction
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